2.P. Workshop: Mental health in old age

Abstract

Abstract Mental health conditions affect people throughout the world, at all ages. Additionally, mental health conditions are associated with social health and with physical health. Applying a body - mind concept of health framework to mental health conditions can add to existing knowledge on mental health conditions in old age. We organized this workshop based on the understanding that mental health and mental health conditions differ according to individual and community factors. The data presented propose that mental health plays a critical role in old age, and as such, deserves greater attention to further understand how who might be at risk for mental health conditions in old age. More specifically, we focus attention on physical health, socio-economic and environmental factors that affecting mental health in old age. First, based on the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), the author examines a reciprocal relationship between functional disability and depression over time and further proposes the potential role of social participation in alleviating depression in old age. Second, mental health of older persons with migrant children will be analyzed across different European regions. Third, based on data from the SHARE study, retirement as a major life event with long term consequences on depression risk is identified. Fourth, the study examines how financial adversity in old age is associated with mental health among older adults who are living in a rural area in Germany. Finally, the associations between loneliness and mental health among Spanish older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic are presented. Based on the presentations, research gaps and promising areas of research, practice, and policy focused on promoting mental health in old age and across the lifespan will be discussed with participants. Key messages • Migration of children, functional disability and financial adversity are related to old age depression. • Loneliness in old age is associated with mental health conditions.